Biology Minor, General
Advantages
Develop your understanding of principles of governing life processes at all levels–molecular, cellular, organismal, and ecological.
Outcome
Biophysicist
Undergraduate Major
Physics Major (BS)
Learn innovative techniques for studying the physical laws that govern space, time, matter, and energy when you major in physics. With an on-campus observatory and student research opportunities, these topics have never been more accessible.
At a Glance
Click to Open
Offered as
Major & Minor
Format
On Campus
College/School
Campus Location
- Chester, PA
Explore the Physics Major
Explore the fundamental principles that govern life in the universe when you major in physics at Widener. From elementary particles to the large-scale structure of the observable universe, you'll gain the critical and creative skills necessary to explore and innovate in a wide range of careers from geophysicist to astronomer,
You'll receive broad exposure to experimental, mathematical, and computational analysis techniques in small classes and labs. Faculty cherish the chance to get to know you and your personal goals and will encourage you every step of the way. Along with state-of-the-art labs, you'll have unparalleled access to the 16” Meade Cassegrain telescope at Widener’s observatory.
Program Options for Physics Majors
New, incoming students and transfer students with a few completed college credits will join the full-time, traditional undergraduate physics major track.
Program Details
- Full-time, 4-year program (transfer students may complete their degree in 3-4 years, depending on accepted credits)
- Completed in-person at our Chester, PA campus
View the Loading... for curriculum and coursework requirements for the physics major.
A special curriculum allows students to earn dual degrees in either physics/electrical engineering BS/BSEE or physics/mechanical engineering BS/BSME.
Details of the curriculum can be obtained by the chairman of the engineering program or the associate dean of science.
The Honors in Physics program is for students who wish to extend their studies beyond the requirements for a BS in physics. Students wishing to graduate with honors must complete a senior thesis.
The senior thesis is intended to provide an opportunity for students to participate in an independent, investigative research project with recognition of their commitment and motivation to exceed the requirements of the traditional physics degree.
The students will carry out novel laboratory, theoretical, or observational research in physics or astronomy. The program includes a three-semester sequence (PHYS 408, PHYS 409 and PHYS 410). Students must defend their theses before a committee and earn a minimum grade of “A–” in PHYS 409 and PHYS 410 to receive the honors designation.
Pair Your Physics Major with a Minor or Certificate
Career Outlook & Outcomes for Physics Majors
Why Study Physics at Widener?
Access State-of-the-Art Equipment and Research Sites
The physics department belongs to the National Undergraduate Research Observatory (NURO) plus you'll get unparalleled access to the 16” Meade Cassegrain telescope at Widener’s observatory. You'll even have the chance to travel to the Lowell Observatory and Anderson Mesa dark-sky viewing station in Flagstaff, Arizona to participate in astronomical research projects.
Partake in Undergraduate Research Opportunities
You'll have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on research projects and even publish in peer-reviewed journals. As for independent research, you can complete a senior thesis, investigate a novel idea in physics or astronomy, and defend your work before a thesis committee. Recently, students have completed studies on active galactic nuclei and sonoluminescence.
Expand Your Network & Engage on Campus
Physics majors have the opportunity to join various clubs and organizations across and outside of campus to expand their network, including the Physics and Astronomy Club, the Sigma Pi Sigma - Physics Honor Society, and many more
Experience Mentorship & Support From Day One
Our Faculty
Studying physics gives a background in a wide range of technical and critical thinking skills. Physics majors go on to careers in fields like aerospace, computing, energy, and even medicine, finance, and law.
Plus trying to figure out how the universe works is just plain fun!
Recent News
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The Widener University Observatory perched atop Kirkbride Hall is a stellar place for area stargazers to gather and see the celestial sights.
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Widener's innovative faculty stepped up to provide two virtual camp experiences for middle- and high school-age students around the world.
Widener Celebrates 50th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 Lunar Landing
Widener University Observatory Director Harry Augensen shares his memories of the lunar landing and his thoughts on the future of space exploration.
Admissions & Aid
Our admissions and financial aid teams are here to support you every step of the way. Have a question? Ask away!
Admissions
Financial Aid
Submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to getting you the financial assistance to make the cost of college—an investment in your future—affordable. This free, online application is the gateway to grants, loans, and other forms of financial aid. Every year, the U.S. Department of Education offers billions of dollars in financial aid to eligible students. Widener gets in on the action, too, annually awarding aid to students with need.
You and at least one parent or caregiver will need a separate FSA ID to access the Federal Student Aid's online system and serve as your legal signatures. Make sure to create your unique FSA IDs before you get started. Our school code is 003313.
Paths to Savings
Nearly 100% of Undergrad Students Receive Financial Aid
Nearly 100% of new full-time undergraduate students receive significant financial aid offers that reduce out-of-pocket costs and make a Widener education not only affordable, but well worth the investment. In fact, once your total financial aid is calculated, the cost of a Widener education is often equal to if not lower than other competitive universities–but with far superior outcomes for your career and earning potential.
The first step to see how much aid you qualify for is submitting the FAFSA.
Scholarships Start at $100,000 Over 4 Years
(including $20,000 per academic year for transfer students)
Funding you don't have to pay back after graduation? That's a win-win! Scholarships and grants are a way for the university and other organizations to honor the academic, merit, and talent-based achievements of our students.
4+1 Students Save Time & Tuition
In the Accelerated Advantage 4+1 program, you can save up to a year of tuition by pursuing a master's degree—resulting in thousands of dollars in savings. During your fifth year of study, you can also apply for graduate-level scholarships and assistantships to further reduce education costs. To learn more about graduate scholarships and assistantships, please speak with your academic advisor during the spring semester of your senior year.
Undergraduate Admissions Office
-
Muller Hall
University Pl
Chester, PA 19013
- 888-WIDENER
- admissions.office@widener.edu
Physics & Astronomy Department
-
Kirkbride Hall,
- 610-499-4337
- kbmarshall@widener.edu